Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that transports you to the sunny streets of Greece, with tender chicken marinated in zesty herbs and served with a delicious medley of sides that makes every bite a delight.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki is a simplified yet authentic take on the classic Greek street food. It consists of juicy marinated chicken, typically grilled or pan-fried, served with fresh accompaniments such as pita bread, salad, and a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

The marinade is full of vibrant flavors, using ingredients like lemon, garlic, and herbs, making the chicken incredibly aromatic and tender. This dish is a perfect combination of healthy, light, and satisfying, ideal for a weeknight meal or a weekend BBQ.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki:

• For The Chicken Marinade

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized chunks)
  • 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or fresh if you have it)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • A pinch of chili flakes (optional for heat)

• For The Accompaniments

  • 4-6 pita breads (or flatbreads)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
  • Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and red onion (for salad)
  • Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade, made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill)

• Optional Extras

  • Feta cheese (crumbled for extra tang)
  • Olives (black or green, for added Mediterranean flavor)

Equipment Needed

You will need the following equipment to prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki:

• A mixing bowl (for marinating the chicken)
• Grill or grill pan (ideal for that smoky, charred flavor)
• A skewer (if you prefer to cook the chicken on skewers for a more traditional presentation)
• Knife and chopping board (for preparing vegetables)
• A small bowl (to make and serve the tzatziki sauce, if homemade)
• Serving platter or individual plates (for presenting the souvlaki)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki?

1. Prepare The Chicken Marinade

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the garlic, lemon zest and juice, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and mix well to ensure that each piece is coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Cook The Chicken

   Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, if using.

   Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s golden, crispy, and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). If you’re not using skewers, simply cook the chicken pieces directly in the pan or on the grill.

3. Prepare The Accompaniments

   While the chicken is grilling, slice the vegetables for the salad. You can also warm the pita breads on the grill for a minute or so on each side, until they are slightly charred and soft.

4. Assemble The Souvlaki

   Once the chicken is ready, serve it alongside the warm pita breads, a generous scoop of tzatziki sauce, and your fresh salad. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of feta or olives if desired.

5. Serve And Enjoy

   Serve the chicken souvlaki hot with the accompaniments, and dig in with your hands or use a fork and knife, as the flavors are best enjoyed fresh and in a relaxed setting.

Expert Tips

• For Juicy Chicken: Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, though longer marination (several hours) will make the chicken even more flavorful. The acidity in the lemon helps tenderize the meat.
• Grill the Chicken for the Best Flavor: If you can, grill the chicken for that authentic smoky flavor. The charred bits add an incredible depth of taste to the dish.
• Make it a Feast: This souvlaki is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal with extra sides like Greek-style roasted potatoes, a Greek salad, or even some homemade hummus.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like more heat, add extra chili flakes to the marinade or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Tzatziki: While store-bought tzatziki is convenient, homemade tzatziki is so much more vibrant and fresh. Use thick Greek yogurt for the best texture.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki is a fantastic, easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. Whether you are cooking for a family meal or hosting a gathering, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity.

The combination of tender marinated chicken, crispy pita, fresh salad, and creamy tzatziki makes it a dish that’s not only delicious but also adaptable to any occasion. Try it out for a meal that’s full of flavor, fun to make, and absolutely satisfying.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki

Jamie Oliver’s chicken souvlaki recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish, combining fresh ingredients with simple techniques to create a dish bursting with Mediterranean flair. While the classic version is always a hit, there are several variations you can explore to put a unique spin on this dish, depending on your preferences or dietary needs.

1. Spicy Chicken Souvlaki:

If you love heat, add some chili to the marinade for a spicy kick. Red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or even fresh jalapeños can give the chicken a robust, fiery flavor. For a more complex heat, try using harissa or sriracha in the marinade.

2. Lemon and Herb Infusion:

For a tangier and lighter souvlaki, infuse the chicken with a combination of fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, and mint. Add extra lemon zest or even lemon juice for a refreshing, citrus-forward dish. This variation is especially perfect for warm weather meals, served with a side of tzatziki.

3. Mediterranean Veggie Skewers:

For a healthier, veggie-packed variation, thread a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers alongside the chicken. The veggies will soak up the marinade flavors and create a colorful, satisfying meal. You can even try grilling some halloumi cheese for an additional Mediterranean twist.

4. Marinated in Yogurt:

Yogurt is a key ingredient in many Mediterranean marinades, adding a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Instead of using just olive oil, create a marinade using Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of cumin.

This results in a tender, juicy chicken with a rich flavor profile. The yogurt-based marinade also keeps the chicken moist during grilling.

5. Sweet and Smoky Souvlaki:

For those who like a sweet touch, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup in the marinade can bring out a caramelized flavor when the chicken is grilled. Combine this with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve a deep, smoky flavor. The sweetness complements the savory grilled chicken beautifully.

6. Chicken Souvlaki with a Twist of Coconut:

If you’re looking for an exotic twist, swap out the typical olive oil with coconut oil and add a dash of coconut milk to the marinade. The coconut oil adds a unique tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the aromatic herbs, making this a delightful variation for summer cookouts or a lighter dinner option.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After enjoying a delicious meal of chicken souvlaki, you may have some leftovers. Here are some best practices to ensure your leftover souvlaki remains fresh and safe to eat:

1. Cool Down Before Storing:

Allow your chicken souvlaki to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the storage container, which could lead to sogginess or bacterial growth. However, don’t leave it out for more than two hours to avoid food safety risks.

2. Use Airtight Containers:

Store your chicken souvlaki in airtight containers to keep the chicken juicy and prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Glass containers are a great option as they are non-reactive, ensuring the flavor remains intact.

3. Keep the Tzatziki Separate:

If you have any leftover tzatziki or other sauces, it’s best to store them separately in small containers. This will help maintain the freshness of the sauce and prevent it from becoming watery or soggy when mixed with the chicken.

4. Freezing Leftovers:

If you have more chicken than you can eat within a few days, consider freezing your leftover chicken souvlaki. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When reheating, ensure that it’s fully thawed before warming it on the stove or grill.

5. Reheating Tips:

To preserve the texture and flavor of the chicken, reheating on a grill or in a pan works best. If you’re reheating in the oven, cover the chicken with foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving the chicken, as it may become rubbery or dry out.

What Goes Well With Chicken Souvlaki?

Chicken souvlaki is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments, making it perfect for a complete meal. Here are some fantastic pairings:

1. Greek Salad:

A classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and feta cheese is the perfect side dish to complement the freshness and flavor of the chicken souvlaki. The crisp, tangy ingredients balance the rich, smoky chicken.

2. Pita Bread:

Soft, warm pita bread is a must when serving chicken souvlaki. Use it to wrap the grilled chicken, creating a handheld sandwich, or serve it alongside as a side for dipping into tzatziki or hummus.

3. Tzatziki Sauce:

This creamy cucumber yogurt sauce is a quintessential Greek accompaniment to souvlaki. The cool and tangy tzatziki contrasts the heat from the grilled chicken, enhancing the overall flavor.

4. Roasted Vegetables:

For a wholesome and savory side, serve your chicken souvlaki with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and eggplant. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables provides a great balance to the savory chicken.

5. Couscous or Rice Pilaf:

For a more filling meal, serve your souvlaki with couscous or a Mediterranean rice pilaf. The fluffy grains soak up the juices from the chicken and tzatziki, making each bite even more satisfying.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob:

If you’re grilling your chicken souvlaki, grilled corn on the cob is a wonderful addition. The smoky sweetness of the charred corn enhances the flavors of the chicken and makes for a fun, summery meal.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s chicken souvlaki is a delightful dish that offers endless possibilities for variations, whether you want to turn up the heat, infuse a different flavor, or make it vegetarian-friendly. Its versatility also extends to its sides and accompaniments, allowing you to create a meal that caters to your tastes.

Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or storing leftovers, following simple best practices ensures that your souvlaki stays delicious for future meals. With its bright, aromatic flavors, chicken souvlaki is bound to be a favorite at your next meal or gathering. Enjoy experimenting with different twists on this Mediterranean classic!.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s chicken souvlaki recipe is a flavorful and fresh take on the classic Greek dish. It typically features marinated chicken that is grilled or cooked in a pan and served in warm pita bread with a selection of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a creamy yogurt-based sauce.

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki?

To make Jamie Oliver’s chicken souvlaki, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. For the sauce, you’ll need Greek yogurt, cucumber, mint, and a little more lemon juice.

How Do I Prepare The Chicken For Jamie Oliver’s Souvlaki Recipe?

Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Once marinated, the chicken is ready to be grilled or pan-fried.

Can I Substitute Chicken With Another Meat For Jamie Oliver’s Souvlaki?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, pork, or even beef if preferred. The key is to ensure the meat is tender and can absorb the marinade for maximum flavor.

How Long Should I Marinate The Chicken For The Souvlaki Recipe?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have time, marinating it for 2 to 4 hours or overnight in the fridge will give the chicken even more depth of flavor.

What Type Of Bread Should I Use For Serving The Chicken Souvlaki?

Traditionally, souvlaki is served in soft pita bread. You can use regular pita or opt for flatbreads, which can also work well for wrapping the souvlaki and toppings.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken souvlaki in advance. Marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also prepare the yogurt sauce ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until serving.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes To Serve With Chicken Souvlaki?

Some great side dishes for chicken souvlaki include Greek salad, roasted vegetables, tzatziki sauce, and crispy fries or couscous. You could also serve it with a light couscous or quinoa salad.

Can I Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki On A Barbecue?

Yes, you can cook Jamie Oliver’s chicken souvlaki on a barbecue. It’s a fantastic way to get that smoky flavor, just make sure the chicken is cooked through and tender. Skewer the chicken for easy grilling.

What’s The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Souvlaki?

The best way to serve chicken souvlaki is to place the grilled chicken on warm pita bread, top it with fresh veggies such as tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a generous dollop of yogurt sauce. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added flavor.